ACHIEVE: Accelerating Community energy, Harnessing Insights and Engaging for Viable and just Energy transitions

Project Description

Societal acceptance and citizen engagement are crucial for successful energy transitions. However, engaging citizens and developing community energy initiatives in Ireland has been challenging, leading to increased opposition and limited participation. The ACHIEVE project addresses these issues, aligning with SEAI's 2024 RD&D Topic 3 and broader objectives. It aims to support local communities and policymakers in implementing the EU's Clean Energy Package and Ireland’s Climate Action Plan, targeting 1,500 Sustainable Energy Communities by 2030. The research will produce: 

1. A systematic review of EU and international best practices, drawing insights from exemplary case studies. 

2. A novel set of indicators and a toolkit for measuring the societal impacts of sustainable energy communities in addition to outlining methods for improved community engagement.

3. An analysis of engagement levels and perspectives in Ireland, identifying barriers and solutions for better participation.

4. Identify policy gaps and provide recommendations, producing a report on best practices, a guide for the indicators toolkit, and accessible executive summaries.

In sum, by enhancing local participation and empowerment, ACHIEVE will build trust and capacity within Ireland's renewable energy sector, contributing to SEAI's objectives and supporting national climate targets.